Single-serve Coffeemaker: The Tassimo

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Years ago we had a Tassimo in the REDBOOK offices. It was in Stacy's office, and every so often I'd be in a meeting in there and she'd offer all of us a single-serve coffee or cappucino of our choice. It was such a treat.

Eventually, we moved buildings, and I think the Tassimo got left behind. In the meantime, single-serve coffee and espresso beverage makers have gotten hugely popular—when I ask for decaf at my dad's house, he just pops a little cartridge into his Keurig and a few minutes later I've got a steaming, perfectly-brewed mug of coffee. I always think about getting one at home, but we got a shiny, awesome Cuisinart coffeemaker for our wedding, so I am in no hurry to replace it.

And then a few weeks ago, the folks at Tassimo sent over their latest model, the T20 by Bosch, for me to try out. (I got a preview—they are available for purchase starting March 30 at Target.) They sent it along with some cafe latte cartridges (or T-discs, as they're called), but since I only drink decaf after having the baby, I went to their web site to order some different varieties. I had quite a choice! They've got Gevalia coffees, good old Maxwell House, and Starbucks, among other brands. And also tea from Twinings and Tazo! And hot chocolate from the very fancy-sounding Suchard (of Switzerland)! I ordered some decaf and some hot chocolate, then waited for the shipment to arrive.

Once I was set up with my supplies, I opened shop, so to speak. Every editor who crossed my office threshold was met with the same invitation: "Can I offer you a cafe latte or hot chocolate or fresh-brewed coffee?" And most often, the answer was yes. I'd swivel around in my desk chair and get brewing. The lattes (made with real milk, which comes in a separate T-disc) were especially popular—my only complaint was that none of the Tassimo-compatible coffee companies has developed decaf cafe lattes yet! But I did especially enjoy the hot chocolate. Anyway, this thing is easy to handle: I just fill the back container with water, pop it onto the unit, put in a new T-disc, and hit the start button. I feel like a barrista! Plus, the Tassimo itself is nice and compact (I remember the old one in Stacy's office being larger and more cumbersome), and fits right next to my printer on the counter behind my desk.

If we ever have to move offices again, I'm making sure the Tassimo comes with me.